Common Questions

The superiority of the Premier Copper Products line is evident in the construction, consistency, quality.

Notice the differences in the two photographs above. On the left is a Premier Copper Products single bowl farmhouse apron sink. On the right is a low cost, low quality similar product.

Construction, Supports, Gauge
The sink on the left has three 14-gauge supports that provide stability in the middle of the apron and at the corners. This feature will keep the apron straight for the lifetime of the product. Since copper is a soft metal, a straight apron that remains straight over time is a difficult task that is accomplished by a skilled artisan and maintained by proper support. The sink on the right does not have sturdy support of a sufficient gauge in the most crucial spots to maintain the integrity of the sink.

The gauge of the copper used in the construction of each sink is also an important consideration. A thicker gauge will hold up better during regular use and will be less susceptible to dents or scratches. Premier Copper Products uses the gauge best suited to the beauty and integrity of each product without cutting corners on thinner materials.

Troughed
You may notice that the Premier Copper products sink is troughed to provide proper drainage to the 3.5” drain. The sink on the right has a flat bottom with no slope that will lead to drainage problems after installation.

Notice the differences in the two photographs above. On the left is a detailed look at the hand rolled corners and bends of a Premier Copper Products sink. On the right is a low quality copper sink that was manufactured with a bending machine.

Hand-rolled Corners, Edges
The sink on the left has hand-rolled corners in addition to the troughed bottom. This feature promotes proper drainage and easy cleaning. Your customer can simply rinse clean the Premier Copper Products sink and walk away. The sink on the right has 90-degree corners that are formed by bending a sheet of copper with a machine called a metal brake. The 90-degree corner will trap debris and not drain properly, which can be difficult to clean and can cause discoloration.

The progressive technique of hand-rolling the edges provides beauty, structural integrity and functionality.

Tempered Patina, Copper Seams
The naturally rich look of a Premier Copper Products sink is achieved by heat-setting, or tempering, the copper to a patina finish. The patina is a living finish that will endlessly regenerate throughout the life of the product with regular use and simple maintenance. Poorly manufactured copper sinks achieve color with chemical treatments and sealants that are not easily maintained over time.

When seams are necessary in construction, Premier Copper Products uses only pure copper wire to weld the copper sheet. Pure copper welds maintain structural integrity and metal continuity. Traditional welds may result in a chemical reaction which can discolor and deteriorate the seam over time.

Spot-on Measurements, Consistently Perfect, Handmade
The term “handmade” can mean many things. Most companies promote handmade to disguise poor or inconsistent manufacturing techniques. Premier Copper Products maintains high quality standards, consistent materials and continual inspection. All products are inspected first at the factory and then again at the Phoenix, AZ, warehouse before they are repackaged for shipping. While this step does incur an additional cost, it ensures quality and ensures that your customer receives a consistently perfect handmade product.

Is there lead mixed in the copper?

No. Premier Copper Products operates the factory that produces the products we sell, and we maintain a strict quality control program that guarantees no lead is used. We have an on-going relationship with the artisans that craft these fine copper products, and these artisans have the highest reputations. Be assured that Premier Copper Products does not add lead to their copper to reduce the cost of material.

Will the sink turn green? Does copper rust?

Unless the copper product is exposed in an outdoor environment for decades, it will not turn green. The finish will maintain a beautiful quality with proper care for a lifetime. Copper has an endless ability to regenerate the patina finish. Customers need not be concerned with the pale green patina seen on outdoor fixtures and landmarks. Copper does not rust. See our Care Instructions for further details.

Are copper products hard to care for?

Copper is not only beautiful, it is easier to care for, more durable, and more health-conscious than other materials. A mild soap and soft cloth are the only cleaning necessary, and occasional wax will ensure the luster of the finish. Because copper is naturally antibacterial and antimicrobial, no disinfecting is necessary. See our Care Instructions for further details.

Is the drain included?

Drains are available for purchase with each copper sink or tub. Because customer needs and installations will vary, it is necessary to choose the drain that best fits the individual project. Premier Copper Products offers a specially made silicone caulk that is color matched and non-reactive. Drains and caulk are available for immediate shipment.

Do copper sinks require a special drain?

For most sinks and tubs your customer will not require a special drain. Premier Copper Products recommends our Oil Rubbed Bronze drains to match the color of the sink for a more pleasing finished project.

Sinks used in the bathroom may require a special drain. Copper bathroom sinks are non-overflow style. The bottom of the sink is thinner than sinks made of other materials and therefore the threads will not allow a standard drain to be tightened completely. Premier Copper Products offers two types of drains that match our bathroom sinks. One allows the sink to be plugged while the other provides a constant flow drain. Please visit the Drain section for more information.

How should a copper sink be secured to the countertop?

Premier Copper Products offers a color matched, neutral cure silicone for installing copper sinks and drains that provides impressive adhesion. This silicone is used to seal the seam between the countertop and sink as well as between the sink and drain. It provides a clean look and pleasing overall installation for your customer. As a best practice, do not use plumber’s putty to install the drain. The result is an unsightly white ring that will spoil the aesthetic beauty of the copper fixture.

When will the product ship?

All items in the Premier Copper Products catalog are available for immediate shipment in the Dark/Brown patina color. Custom sizes and additional patina color may be available. Area dealers can verify in-stock items by phone.

Custom orders can be fulfilled for any size or color sink with as little as four weeks lead time.

Can I get different colors?

Yes. Premier Copper Products offers four patina options by special order. Most customers prefer the Dark/Brown patina color for its deep, rich tones mixed with lighter natural copper. All catalog items are available for immediate shipment in Dark/Brown. Additional colors may be available for immediate shipment. Area dealers can verify in-stock items by phone.

Can consumers buy direct from Premier Copper Products?

Premier Copper Products is a wholesale supplier to commercial businesses. Please visit the Dealer Locator to contact a dealer in your area or call for a referral.